What Sink Size Should You Use for a 33 Inch Cabinet? Read This

When remodeling or designing a new kitchen, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right sink size for your cabinets. This ensures your new sink will fit properly and function well in the available space. For standard 33 inch wide cabinets, selecting the ideal sink size deserves careful consideration.

Taking accurate measurements, choosing the right sink type for your needs, and accounting for elements like the faucet and backsplash will allow you to zero in on the perfect size sink.

Determine Your Current Cabinet Size

Before shopping for a new sink, it's essential to measure the exact width of your existing 33 inch cabinet opening. While standard cabinet sizes are generally in 3 inch increments, the actual interior width can vary. Carefully measuring inside your cabinet from one end to the other will give you the real number to work with.

Be sure to account for any inside lips, edges or hardware that may take up interior space. You want to know the clear working width for the sink. Having these accurate cabinet dimensions will allow you to choose a sink guaranteed to fit.

Consider Your Ideal Sink Type

The most common kitchen sink types include undermount, top-mount or drop-in, and apron-front. Undermount sinks fit below the countertop with a seamless edge. Drop-in sinks rest on top of the counter. Apron-front, or farmhouse style sinks, have a visible front face.

If you prefer an apron-front sink, make note of its total dimensions. Unlike other sink types, the front face may add several inches that need to be accounted for to fit properly. Always double check the measurements of the specific sink model you're considering to ensure it will work with your 33 inch cabinet.

Allow for Sink Clearance

When installing a sink in any size cabinet, you need to allow adequate clearance on the sides. A good guideline is maintaining 2-3 inches of open space between the edges of your sink and the interior cabinet walls.

This gap prevents the sides of the sink from rubbing against the cabinet. It also leaves room for general use and cleaning around the entirety of the sink. Attempting to fit a sink too tightly inside the cabinet risks problems down the road.

Standard Sink Sizes for 33" Cabinets

Based on the 2-3 inch clearance rule, the most common sink sizes used with a 33 inch cabinet are:

• 24 inch sink
• 30 inch sink

This allows for at least a few inches of breathing room between the sink and cabinet walls on each side. An 18 inch sink can also potentially work for small spaces maximizing counter area. However, a larger 33 inch sink is not recommended - it simply will not leave enough clearance.

Measure for the Backsplash & Faucet

When determining where the sink will be positioned, the backsplash and faucet are key considerations. The height and depth of your backsplash affects how close the sink can be placed to the wall. Standard backsplashes range from 4 to 6 inches tall.

Likewise, the faucet size, handle clearances, and placement will impact the amount of open countertop needed. Be sure to test different sink positions relative to your backsplash and faucet to ensure proper fit.

Consider Your Kitchen Work Triangle

The kitchen work triangle represents the workflow between the sink, refrigerator, and stove. The optimal distance between these three fixtures is 4 to 9 feet. This allows you to move efficiently as you work.

When choosing your sink size, make sure it will allow for a good triangle configuration. Avoid cramping the sink too close to the fridge or stove. Ensure enough clearance for you to navigate comfortably.

Double Check Plumbing and Electrical

The existing kitchen plumbing will dictate where you can locate the sink drain. This may limit the possible positions for your new sink. Also take note of any electrical outlets, switches or fixtures. You'll want to avoid interference with these elements when establishing your sink location.

Take the time to account for all plumbing and electrical components to choose the ideal sink placement.

When selecting a sink for a 33 inch wide cabinet, the standard recommendation is opting for a 30 inch sink. This leaves a couple inches of clearance on each side. Another option is choosing a smaller 24 inch sink to maximize counter space.

Be sure to precisely measure your cabinet opening and allow for proper sink clearances. Also take into account your faucet, backsplash, plumbing locations, and kitchen work triangle. Test different sink positions to find the perfect fit for both form and function.

By following these tips, you can easily determine the optimal sink size for your 33 inch cabinet. Take the guesswork out of the process and enjoy your new kitchen sink for years to come.